Award-winning actor, producer, entrepreneur and philanthropist Wendell Pierce has joined the Board of Directors of the Classical Theatre of Harlem, adding another prominent voice to the organization as it continues to expand its artistic and community impact.
Pierce is widely recognized for his work in television, film and theater, including performances in The Wire, Treme, Elsbeth, Jack Ryan and Suits. His stage career includes his acclaimed performance as Willy Loman in the 2022 Broadway production of Death of a Salesman, which earned him a Tony Award nomination for Best Actor.
Pierce also won a Tony Award as a producer of the Broadway production of Clybourne Park. Throughout his career, he has remained active in efforts involving arts education, economic development and community investment.
His appointment comes as Classical Theatre of Harlem builds on a record-breaking summer season and continues its mission of bringing accessible, high-quality theater to Harlem and audiences throughout New York City.
Founded in 1999, Classical Theatre of Harlem has established itself as a major cultural institution, presenting new interpretations of classical works that center Black and global majority voices. The organization produces free public performances, educational programs and community initiatives designed to make theater accessible to broad audiences.
The company is also known for its annual Uptown Shakespeare in the Park, which brings free outdoor theater to Harlem. Its arts education initiative, Project Classics, provides theater-based training and live performance experiences for Harlem youth and their families.
Classical Theatre of Harlem Producing Artistic Director Ty Jones welcomed Pierce to the organization’s leadership, citing his artistic career and commitment to community.
Pierce said he has long admired the work of Classical Theatre of Harlem and its efforts to connect classical theater with contemporary audiences. He also highlighted the organization’s work creating opportunities for artists and inspiring future generations.
Pierce joins a board that includes actors Billy Crudup, Ethan Hawke and Kara Young, as well as leaders from the business and philanthropic communities.
The new board appointment follows the organization’s recent production of Othello, which attracted record audiences during its Uptown Shakespeare in the Park season. The production added to CTH’s ongoing efforts to bring major theatrical productions to Harlem while developing new audiences and artists.
Beyond his entertainment career, Pierce has maintained a strong connection to community development, particularly in his hometown of New Orleans. Following Hurricane Katrina, he became involved in efforts focused on rebuilding, economic development and community investment.
Classical Theatre of Harlem currently serves more than 35,000 live audience members annually, while its digital programming has attracted more than 500,000 viewers.
With Pierce joining its Board of Directors, the organization continues to expand its leadership and build on its commitment to theater, education and community engagement in Harlem and beyond.
Photo: Wendell Pierce via Classical Theatre of Harlem